Isn’t it amazing how much man has progressed over all these years? Man has created so much in so little time on this planet; the word astounding seems like under-appreciation. And one such astounding wonder is present right here in Dubai; The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.

Located in Dubai Mall, the largest shopping mall in the world, this gigantic aquarium is filled with 10 million litres of water and it also holds the title of the largest suspended aquarium in the world. A key centerpiece in Dubai Mall, this aquarium features one of the largest viewing panels at 32.8m wide & 8.3m high. I realize that the word largest has been used quite a few times in the past few sentences, but what other way do you have to describe one of the ‘largest’ aquariums in the world… situated in the ‘largest’ mall in the world? I can’t seem to find many ways around it.

The Dubai Aquarium houses more than 33,000 living animals all kept in well maintained waters whilst ensuring that nothing feels artificial to those animals. These animals are regularly taken care of and provided with proper diet to ensure a healthy and family friendly aquarium viewing; because no one wants to watch an angry Shark go ham on its roomies. Representing more than 85 species including over 400 sharks & rays combined, this aquarium is truly a sight to behold.

But what is Dubai without a bit of “let’s be different” attitude. And they encapsulated that perfectly with the creation of a walkway underneath the massive aquarium. A 270-degree acrylic walkthrough tunnel, running through the aquarium makes for an incredible close-encounter experience with some of the most fascinating underwater animals on the planet. Plus it is fitted with a special ‘lunar-cyclic’ lighting system that changes the ambience of the tank depending on the time of day.

The Underwater Zoo on the other hand provides a completely different experience. Find yourself face to face with dangerous Piranhas, Giant Catfish, playful Otters, a Humbolt Penguin Colony and much more as you walk along the Rainforest, Rocky Shore & Living Ocean environments at the Underwater Zoo.

So what more can you do at the Underwater Zoo? Well, you can take a gander at the Rainforest from a suspension bridge high above the river and tree canopy. You can even reach out and touch some of the more hardy rock pool inhabitants. What more, you can also view the undisputed star, King Croc, which is a 5m long, 40 year old Australian Crocodile that weighs in at 750kg.